Phone Alternative for Kids: Relay LTE Walkie Talkie

This post may contain affiliate links. The Review Wire may collect a share of sales if you decide to shop from them. Please see my full disclosure policy for details.

UPDATE: Relay for Families has been discontinued effective September 15, 2024.

My youngest, 11, has been asking for an iPhone. “Mom, everyone at school has a phone, everyone!” Oh, really! Well, I have been trying to hold off getting him yet another screen for as long as possible. My husband came across a phone alternative for kids called the Relay. The Relay, from Republic Wireless, sent us a pair of their innovative connected communicators. We have been using them for a few weeks, and I have to say I am impressed.

The concept is a supercharged walkie-talkie that we all had as kids—or can still buy today. But they are supercharged. They run on the same network as your cellphone, so the range is nationwide, and they connect fast without static or delay.

Two units run $100, and you can link up to ten units. For parents or maybe elderly caretakers, you can put an app on your phone to be included in the communication. You actually need the app to set them up to use WiFi (available for both Android and iOS), add track location, and other easy admin functions. The setup was fast and easy. We were talking and having fun with my son in less than 5 minutes for both units.

You can use the app as a device to talk and listen. You can also track where the unit is from the app, check the battery level, and manage the account. The units come pre-named (like Peaceful Tiger or Awesome Bear), but you can change the name to Fortnite King as my son did.

Again, because they run on the cell phone network, their range is as good as cell service in your area—you could have one, and the other could be cross-country with no problems.

These are ideal for kids who are not quite ready for a pricey phone and monthly plan but still want to be in touch – practice, at friends’ houses, or just out being a kid. Parents have peace of mind because you can track them via the app. Another ideal use would be an elderly parent or relative. With only three controls on the unit, staying connected is easy and simple. I can also see these as great for multi-car road trips, camping, or out on the water. Again, the only limitation is having cell service. We had no challenges in our few weeks of use.

My only real gripe is that they need a proprietary cable to charge. If you leave it behind or misplace it, you will be out of luck. Stores won’t carry it, and you will have a dead unit. So, don’t lose it.

The monthly service runs $9.99 + taxes per Relay, which will be charged at activation.

Fun. Easy. Inexpensive. Grab a pair and get your Relay on.